Name: Creamy Coconut Rice Pudding with Mango Bliss and Honey
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Medium Grain Rice (Short grain can also be used.); 2 cups Coconut Milk (Almond milk is a good substitute.); 1 cup Warm Water (Use as needed for consistency.); 1/4 cup Brazilian Iguaçu River Wildflower Honey (Can substitute with quality honey or maple syrup.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Use pure extract for best flavor.); 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon (Nutmeg can be used as a substitute.); 1 pinch Salt (Essential for balancing sweetness.); 1 cup Fresh Mango (Diced for topping.); 1 cup Mandarin Slices (Can be swapped based on season.); 1/4 cup Freeze-Dried Raspberries (Optional but recommended.)

The gentle aroma of warm coconut rice pudding wafts through the kitchen, momentarily whisking me away to sun-kissed shores and tropical breezes. This delightful bowl of comfort—infused with rich coconut milk and sweetened with Silvestre honey—makes the perfect treat to cozy up with during the chillier months. With vibrant mango slices adorning the top, it’s not just a feast for the stomach but also a satisfying feast for the eyes. What I love most about this Coconut Rice Pudding is how effortlessly it comes together, making it a fabulous option for both impromptu gatherings and quiet evenings at home. Plus, it’s gluten-free and dairy-free, inviting everyone to indulge in its creamy embrace without worry. Ready to experience this tropical twist on a classic? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Coconut Rice Pudding a Must-Try?

Comforting and creamy, this Coconut Rice Pudding will instantly make you feel at home. Versatile toppings, like fresh mango or freeze-dried raspberries, allow you to customize each bowl. Time-saving and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for busy evenings or unexpected guests. Healthy yet indulgent, it’s gluten-free and dairy-free, catering to diverse diets. Discover why this delightful dessert has become a beloved classic—you might even find it pairs beautifully with a refreshing drink like our Pineapple Coconut Mojito for a complete treat!

Coconut Rice Pudding Ingredients

For the Pudding
• Medium Grain Rice – This gives the pudding its desirable chewiness; short grain rice can also be used for a creamier texture.
• Coconut Milk – Provides that rich, tropical flavor; almond milk is a good dairy-free alternative but won’t be as creamy.
• Water – Use warm water as needed to adjust the pudding’s consistency during cooking.
• Brazilian Iguaçu River Wildflower Honey (Silvestre) – Naturally sweetens the pudding; you can swap it with any quality honey or maple syrup for a vegan option.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall aroma; always opt for pure extract for the best flavor.
• Cinnamon – Adds a warm note; you can substitute with nutmeg for a different spice profile.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness; don’t skip this essential ingredient.

For the Toppings
• Fresh Mango – Offers vibrant sweetness and freshness; feel free to use other seasonal fruits like bananas or berries.
• Mandarin Slices – Brightens the dish with zesty notes; they can be swapped out based on seasonality.
• Freeze-Dried Raspberries – Provides a delightful crunch and color contrast; optional but highly recommended for an added touch.

Each ingredient in this Coconut Rice Pudding works synergistically to create a luscious dessert that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Coconut Rice Pudding

Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, mix 1 cup of medium grain rice, 2 cups of coconut milk, and 1 cup of warm water. Add ¼ cup of Brazilian Iguaçu River Wildflower Honey, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir the ingredients together until well combined and the honey is fully dissolved, ensuring an inviting aroma fills your kitchen.

Step 2: Bring to a Boil
Set the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom. Keep an eye on it, as the liquid will bubble and turn frothy; this should take around 5–7 minutes. The sweet scent of coconut will begin to fill the air, signaling that it’s time for the next step.

Step 3: Simmer and Cook
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a lid. Allow the coconut rice pudding to simmer for 40-50 minutes, stirring frequently to maintain creaminess and prevent it from clumping. As it cooks, the rice should become tender and the mixture thickens into a beautiful, rich pudding consistency—just perfect for your cozy dessert.

Step 4: Adjust Consistency
Throughout the cooking process, keep a watchful eye on your coconut rice pudding. If it becomes too thick, gradually stir in additional warm water, about ¼ cup at a time, until you reach your desired creamy texture. This will ensure your pudding remains luxurious without losing its delightful viscosity.

Step 5: Serve with Toppings
Once the pudding has reached that perfect creamy texture, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Serve it warm in bowls topped with fresh diced mango, mandarin slices, and a sprinkle of freeze-dried raspberries for added crunch and color. Drizzle with a bit more honey for an extra touch of sweetness if desired, transforming your Coconut Rice Pudding into a tropical bliss!

Make Ahead Options

These Coconut Rice Pudding delights are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the pudding base up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow all cooking instructions, let it cool completely, and refrigerate it in an airtight container. To maintain the pudding’s luxurious creamy texture, gently stir in a little warm water before serving if it thickens overnight. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just reheat the pudding on low heat, and top with fresh mango slices and a drizzle of Silvestre honey. This way, you can savor a comforting dessert without the last-minute fuss!

How to Store and Freeze Coconut Rice Pudding

Fridge: Store your Coconut Rice Pudding in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of coconut milk to restore the creamy texture.

Freezer: If you’d like to freeze the pudding, portion it into freezer-safe containers—ideal for quick treats later. It can be kept for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When reheating, add a little water or coconut milk to help regain creaminess. Stir well while heating to ensure even warmth throughout.

Serving Tip: The pudding is best enjoyed warm with fresh toppings, but can be chilled for a delightful twist on a hot summer day!

What to Serve with Coconut Rice Pudding

The sweetness of coconut rice pudding pairs beautifully with a variety of flavorful companions, creating an unforgettable dining experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of tropical fruits like pineapple and papaya brings out the coconut’s rich flavor while adding a refreshing crunch.
Crispy Coconut Cookies: These add a delightful textural contrast, with a sweet treat that complements the pudding’s creaminess perfectly.
Spicy Pineapple Salsa: The heat from the jalapeños in this salsa enhances the sweetness of the pudding, giving a vibrant twist to each bite.
Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle these over the top for an elegant touch; their nuttiness elevates the pudding to a new level of indulgence.
Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea create a cozy ambiance that complements the comforting flavors of the pudding beautifully.
Minted Iced Green Tea: A refreshing drink that contrasts well with the richness; the mint can awaken your palate after indulging.
Dark Chocolate Shavings: Adding these gives a lovely depth of flavor; the slight bitterness pairs beautifully with the sweet coconut and honey.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A sprinkle of this on top before serving adds an aromatic and slightly crunchy finish to each warm bowl.
Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: The creaminess of the ice cream harmonizes with the pudding and solidifies a decadent dessert experience.
Honey Almond Biscotti: Perfect for dipping, it brings a lovely nutty flavor that resonates well with the honey used in the pudding.

Expert Tips for Coconut Rice Pudding

Choose the Right Rice: Opt for medium or short grain rice for the best texture; long grain can lead to a less creamy pudding.
Monitor the Heat: Cooking on low prevents sticking and ensures even cooking, so don’t rush the simmering process.
Adjust Liquid Gradually: If the pudding thickens too much, add warm water slowly, about ¼ cup at a time, to maintain that desired creamy consistency.
Taste for Sweetness: Keep in mind that different honeys vary in sweetness. Always adjust the amount of Silvestre honey to suit your palate.
Mix It Up: Explore various toppings—bananas, blueberries, or even a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes can elevate your Coconut Rice Pudding experience!

Coconut Rice Pudding Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these unique twists on this cozy dessert!

Fruit Swaps: Replace mango with bananas, berries, or peaches to suit your taste and what’s in season.
Sweetener Choices: For a healthier option, use agave syrup or stevia instead of honey to lower sugar content.
Add Nuts: Toss in some toasted almonds or cashews for a delightful crunch that adds both texture and nutrition.
Spice It Up: Amp up the flavor with ginger or cardamom in place of cinnamon for an exotic twist that surprises the palate.
Creamy Alternatives: Try using cashew or oat milk instead of coconut milk for a different flavor and texture profile.
Boozy Bliss: Add a splash of rum or coconut rum for an adults-only version that elevates this dessert to a tropical vacation experience.
Chill for a Treat: Serve this pudding chilled as a refreshing dessert during warmer months, garnished with fresh mint leaves.
Texture Enhancements: Fold in some chia seeds or a drizzle of coconut cream just before serving for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.

Remember, whatever variation you choose, each bowl of Coconut Rice Pudding can become a unique masterpiece! For a delightful pairing, serve it alongside our irresistible Mango Coconut Pudding or a flavorful Coconut Curry Soup for a full tropical experience. Enjoy!

Coconut Rice Pudding with Mango and Honey Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe mangoes for the toppings?
Absolutely! Look for mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch and have a sweet aroma. The skin color can vary, so inspect for that subtle give when gently pressing. Ideal ripeness indicates they’ll be sweet, juicy, and perfect for topping your Coconut Rice Pudding.

What’s the best way to store leftover Coconut Rice Pudding?
Very! Store your Coconut Rice Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it sealed tightly to prevent it from absorbing odors. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of coconut milk for that creamy consistency.

Can I freeze Coconut Rice Pudding? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, ladle your Coconut Rice Pudding into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight, then reheat gently on the stove, adding a little warm water or coconut milk to restore its creamy texture.

What should I do if my pudding turns out too thick?
If your Coconut Rice Pudding thickens more than you’d like, no worries! Gradually stir in additional warm water, about ¼ cup at a time. Return it to low heat while stirring until it reaches your desired consistency. This simple adjustment keeps it rich and delightful.

Is this recipe gluten-free and safe for those with dairy allergies?
Yes, indeed! The Coconut Rice Pudding is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a wonderful option for anyone with those dietary considerations. Just be mindful of the honey if you have specific allergies. You can easily substitute it with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly twist.

Can I use different fruits as toppings?
The more the merrier! Feel free to switch up the fruit toppings based on your preferences and what’s in season. Bananas, berries, or even peaches work wonderfully alongside or instead of mangoes, allowing you to customize this comforting dessert with your favorites!